Melasma is a common acquired hypermelanosis of the face, the treatment of which is challenging. The pathogenesis of melasma is complex and multifactorial. The classical triggering factors of melasma include positive family history, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and hormonal factors. Apart from this, newer theories implicated in the pathogenesis of melasma include neural and vascular factors, impairment of barrier function, function of visible light, and other molecular pathways. Recent studies have also suggested the importance of cells other than the melanocytes such as keratinocytes, fibroblast, mast cells, and cutaneous vasculature in the pathogenesis of melasma. Identification of these factors will help in targeted treatment, which may have longer remission and reduced relapse rates.

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Background: Vaginal discharge is a common complaint among women attending the sexually transmissible infections (STIs) clinic and is a cause for concern and mental distress. It can be attributed to physiological or pathological causes. This study aims to understand the prevalence of various etiologies of vaginal discharge, which would help frame health policies based on local needs. Objectives: (1) To estimate the prevalence of discharge per vaginum among sexually active women attending the STI clinic at a tertiary care center during a 1-year period, (2) To identify the organisms causing vaginal discharge, (3) To have a clinicoetiological correlation of the cases, and (4) To identify the subspecies of Candida causing vaginal candidiasis. Materials and Methods: A total of 126 patients with vaginal discharge attending the STI clinic at a tertiary care center were included in the study. A detailed clinical history, physical examination of the external genitalia, and vaginal examination were done on each patient. Five swabs were taken from the posterior fornix and lateral vaginal wall for evaluation of the organisms. Results: The mean age of the study population was 31.51 ± 7.9 years. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) was found to be the most common cause of vaginal discharge, followed by bacterial vaginosis, mucopurulent cervicitis, herpes genitalis, and trichomoniasis. The most common species of Candida was found to be Candida albicans . Conclusion: Even though VVC still remains the major cause, other viral infections like herpes significantly contribute. Vaginal discharge is an important indicator of women's reproductive health and its detailed evaluation helps identify the prevalence of various STIs in the community.